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23 Best Second Wedding Dresses

We've rounded up 23 second wedding dresses that are perfect for a reception outfit change or for nearlyweds looking for a second marriage wedding dress

Bride reclining on a chair with her eyes closed and head back wearing a second marriage wedding dress studded with pearl beading

Bride reclining on a chair with her eyes closed and head back wearing a second marriage wedding dress studded with pearl beading

Shopping for your wedding dress is one of the most exciting parts of the nearlyweds experience - so why just stop at one dress? Second wedding dresses are a rising trend - and with good reason.

It can be almost impossible to say yes to just one dress, especially when you have to consider the gown’s practicality for the entire day, as well as all of the dancing you plan to do in the evening! 

For this very reason, more and more nearlyweds are considering investing in a second bridal dress to change into for the evening of their wedding, which most of the time is a complete contrast to their ceremony dress. 

20 2nd Wedding Gowns We Love

Whether you’re looking to go glam for the evening, can’t commit to wearing just one dress all day (and we get it!) or you’re looking for the perfect 2nd marriage dress that’s perhaps not as traditional as the one you first chose, we’ve got them all here…

1. Beaded Column Dress - Martina Liana

Beaded Sheath Second wedding dress with shoulder straps and pearl detailing

Want to make a bold statement at your reception? This dazzling, figure-hugging gown by Martina Liana is a must have! Lavishly decorated with pearls and beads, this 2nd wedding gown is luminous from every angle. 

Whether you're looking for a second marriage dress, or you want a sexy second bridal dress - that low back and sheer panels will add some va-va-voom to your wedding day look. 

  • Expert Take: This gown’s sheer side panels and angled corsetry create the perfect sultry and modern touch. It's ideal if you want something a little less traditional.  
  • Sizing: AU 7-22
  • Price: POA

£POA | Shop Now

2. Aurora - Gozde Karadana

Intricately beaded sheath second wedding dress with criss-cross back and tulle gloves

We love an alternative 2nd wedding gown look! This beautifully beaded creation by Turkish designer Gozde Karadana is the perfect balance of contemporary glam and romantic elegance. The delicate tulle cape and sleeves perfectly balance out the heavier beaded fabric of the dress. 

You can also turn this into a second wedding look by itself, by simply removing the cape and sleeves for your wedding reception. 

  • Expert Take: The delicate tulle sleeves and high necked cape give the look an intriguing celestial edge
  • Sizing: Contact stockists for details
  • Price: POA

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3. Satin Bandeau Overskirt Dress - Coast

Strapless satin short 2nd wedding dress with overskirt

More of a minimalist when it comes to your second wedding dress preferences? No problem, Coast have your evening ensemble covered with this unique duchess satin mini, complemented by its matching full overskirt with a daring high low hemline.

It's ideal for nearlyweds working to a tight budget as well, as it comes in a just over £100 - a bargain! The fabric looks a lot more expensive than it actually is. 

  • Expert Take: Why save this look just for the evening? Wear the overskirt for your ceremony look and whip it off after to reveal your second wedding dress! 
  • Sizing: 8 - 18
  • Price: £109

£109 | Shop Now

4. Grace - Ella Moda

Short wedding dress with corseted floral lace bodice and organza pleated skirt

Jump in on the short second dress trend with this romantic and playful gown, handcrafted by renowned Australian bridal designer Ella Moda. 

Hand cut floral lace merges seamlessly into this gown’s lightweight organza crinoline skirt, making it the perfect dress to dance the night away in. Team the look with a killer pair of designer wedding shoes for the ultimate glam wedding party style, or dress it down with cute flats for a registry office wedding. 

  • Expert Take: Pair the glorious Grace gown with Ella Moda’s matching floral lace gloves for a super sophisticated wedding reception look
  • Sizing: Contact stockists for details
  • Price: POA

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5. Toni - Rixo

Long Sleeve bridal mini dress with feather trim 

Classic meets extravagant in this chic second wedding gown by Rixo. 

Its long sleeves, clean lines and empire waistline make it the ultimate classy gown, and the addition of the ostrich feather trim provides a subtle, playful edge. It's perfect for nearlyweds who absolutely adore vintage glamour - it's giving series 70s vibes. 

  • Expert Take: Rixo offers a try-at-home service, plus 10% off your first order, making them a dream when it comes to shopping for a wedding dress online! They’ve also got a really broad range of sizes available. 
  • Sizing: 6 - 24
  • Price: £395

£395 | Shop Now

6. White Joni Tulle and Crepe Gown – Rime Arodaky

Image of a model wearing a gown with a sheer, dotted bodice and a crepe skirt

If you're in the market for a second marriage wedding dress you kept your look simple the first time, you may be in the mood for something more show-stopping for your second wedding dress. Rime Arodaky is the designer to know for sophisticated bridal sexiness. We love her jumpsuits, but she also gives great dress, like this stunning gown with a plunging bodice of Swiss-dot tulle.

  • Expert Take: Those irresistible cuffed sleeves will draw attention to your brand new wedding ring pretty nicely...At the time of publication, the dress is on sale with 40% off, plus a further 25% discount available at checkout with the code 'extra25'. Sizing is limited as it's on sale. 
  • Sizing: FR34 - FR38
  • Price: £2,061.36

£2,061.36 | Shop Now

7. Marianne - Rewritten London

Satin halter neck dress with sheath silhouette

This minimalist beauty will be sure to turn heads during your reception. 

Made of a sustainable bamboo satin, the loose fit of this second wedding dress by sustainable bridal label Rewritten London makes it perfect for dancing! The halterneck style is so chic and timeless too - you’re guaranteed to always love your look with this dress.

  • Expert Take: The fact this dress is sustainably produced removes any guilt you might have about buying a second dress. Sell it on or rent it out after your big day to continue the positive eco-impact!
  • Sizing: 8 - 18
  • Price: £750

£750 | Shop Now 

8. Everly - Grace Loves Lace

Image of a model wearing a two-piece lace wedding dress

Decided to have your second wedding abroad? We think these Grace Loves Lace bridal separates would help you put together a fabulously boho and carefree look for a beach celebration.

  • Expert Take: This two-piece is currently on sale (at the time of publication), as is reduced from $1,600 to $1,200. Sizing is limited due to the fact it's on sale.
  • Sizing: L - XL
  • Price: $1,200

$1,200 | Shop Now

9. Jennifer - Monsoon

Image of a model wearing a long-sleeve wedding dress with embroidered mesh sleeves

A wedding dress with sleeves doesn't have to feel heavy. This Monsoon dress has embroidered mesh sleeves that enhance the overall feel of delicate romance, and at under £500 it's a really reasonable price for a second marriage dress.

  • Expert Take: This dress is so beautiful and an absolute steal for the price. It's been in stock at Monsoon for a while now, meaning there is limited stock in some sizes.
  • Sizing: 6 - 22
  • Price: £499

£499 | Shop Now

10. Garance - Watters

Satin sheath gown with pearl detailing and off shoulder sleeves

Love the classic look but crave a modern twist? Garance by Watters is the solution: its polished satin draping and cowl neckline makes this gown demure and incredibly chic, however the exposed corseted back and pearl detailing add a contemporary feel.

  • Expert Take: This glamorous beauty is also available as a strapless gown to emphasise the bold neckline, with optional delicate pearl straps, giving you another take on this look. 
  • Sizing: 00 - 24W
  • Price: POA

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11. Rose Wedding Dress – Whistles

Image of a model wearing a lace, off-the-shoulder gown with a high-low skirt

What we love about the Whistles bridal collection is that they take classic wedding dress features and give them a contemporary spin. Take this Rose dress: it's a popular off-the-shoulder style but with a high-low skirt and scalloped hem - the modern way to do pretty. It's got an undeniable bridal feel, but is low-key enough to be perfect as a second wedding dress.

  • Expert Take: This dress is currently on sale - at the time of publication, it was down to £299, which is an amazing price for such a beautiful dress. It has 10 positive reviews from shoppers, with a couple just flagging that the zip is a little stiff. Practise using it ahead of the big day so it's not a stress on the morning of your wedding.
  • Sizing: 04 - 14
  • Price: £299

£299 | Shop Now

12. Natasha - Karen Willis Holmes

Fully beaded Fitted second wedding dress with puff sleeves

Calling all maximalist nearlyweds searching for a second dress! The Natasha gown by Karen Willis Holmes may be just the bold beauty you are looking for. 

Its fully beaded sheath silhouette makes a sparkling statement whilst simultaneously elongating the body, and its daring puff sleeves exude vintage glamour. 

  • Expert Take: One of our Editor’s favourite brands, Karen Willis Holmes is known for its clean, timeless designs. The V-neckline on this gown is especially flattering. 
  • Sizing: UK 4 - 16
  • Price: POA

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13. Lottie - Nadine Merabi

Short embellished second wedding dress with straps and a feather trim

Prepare to wow your guests in this eye-catching showstopper by Nadine Merabi

This second wedding dress features crystal waterfall beading which intertwines seamlessly with its bold feather trimmed hem, making it the perfect post-ceremony look!

  • Expert Take: This is a really reasonably priced second bridal gown. The movement of the white beaded fringing as you dance with your loved ones in the evening will capture beautifully in photos. 
  • Sizing: UK 6 - 18
  • Price: £495

£495 | Shop Now

14. Noce Two-Piece - Rembo Styling

Embroidered lace bridal two piece with bateau neckline and maxi skirt

Who said you have to wear a second wedding ‘dress’? This quirky two piece by Rembo Styling, with its embroidered floral lace and bateau neckline is a chic modern take on traditional wedding-wear. 

  • Expert Take: The versatility and interchangeability of this two piece means that it can be easily integrated into your post-wedding wardrobe too.
  • Sizing: Contact stockists for details
  • Price: POA

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15. Cassidy - Elbeth Gillis

Beaded square neck sheath gown with satin belt and open back

Cassidy by Elbeth Gillis is perfect for nearlyweds who adore the Old Hollywood Glamour aesthetic. 

Channel your inner Marilyn for your second wedding dress with this breath-taking sheath gown with an elegant square neckline adorned with lustrous beaded tulle. 

  • Expert Take: The unexpected open back adds an additional touch of sensuality to this opulent gown - it’s a great choice if you’ve gone more traditional for your ceremony look. If you love this, you'll also really love Eliza Jane Howell dresses. 
  • Sizing: Contact stockists for details
  • Price: POA

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16. Eve - Monsoon

Bandeau column gown with 3D floral detailing

This column wedding dress by Monsoon is a must have for all of the boho nearlyweds out there. 

With floral lace and vine embroidery which cascades gently down its loose fitting skirt, ‘Eve’ epitomises modern romance. 

  • Expert Take: Accessorise this enchanting second wedding dress look with a whimsical flower crown to embody the free spirited aesthetic. 
  • Sizing: 6 - 18
  • Price: £550

£550 | Shop Now

17. Lisette - Needle & Thread

Halter neck ruffle 2nd bridal gown with A-line skirt

The beautiful, ruffled Lisette dress comes in three different colours - cream for those who want a more traditional second wedding dress look, pink for a more feminine feel, or black for a dose of drama.

The swishy skirt is just made for twirling on a wedding dance floor. 

  • Expert Take: Just when you thought the dress couldn’t get any better, its fabric composition is 100% recycled. 
  • Sizing: UK 4 - 18
  • Price: £450

£450 | Shop Now

18. Poppy - Made With Love

Short dress with full satin skirt and sheer corset beaded bodice

If you’re searching for the perfect second wedding dress to party in, Made With Love’s Poppy could be the one for you. 

Combining a lustrous mikado mini skirt with a delicately beaded corseted bodice, this classic feminine beauty is a dream for modern nearlyweds. 

  • Expert Take: This dress comes in a broad range of sizes, and is also perfect for pre-wedding celebrations, such as for your engagement party or as a hen do outfit.
  • Sizing: 0 - 30
  • Price: £1,550

£1,550 | Shop Now

19. Grace - Grace Loves Lace

Crepe fit and flare dress with cowl neck draping

This dress is called Grace for a reason - it’s the epitome of the signature Grace Loves Lace style. 

If you want a second wedding dress that embodies elegant, old-school Hollywood glamour, this is the one for you. It’s designed to be showstopper, whilst feeling comfortable and flattering on your body. 

  • Expert Take: Done the whole ball gown thing before and looking for something totally different for your second marriage dress? The Grace gown would be perfect for embracing your understated, sophisticated side!
  • Sizing: XXS - XXXL
  • Price: £2,300

£2,300 | Shop Now

20. Easton - Justin Alexander

Long sleeve fit and flare crepe second marriage gown with lace detailing

A fit and flare silhouette is always incredibly flattering, and this sleek stretch mikado number by renowned American brand Justin Alexander is certainly no exception. 

Featuring a sexy illusion bodice intricately decorated with the finest floral sequined lace that reappears on its cut-out cathedral length train, this is the perfect second wedding dress for the classic newlywed who still wants to make a dramatic entrance. 

  • Expert Take: Elevated seaming is used on this gown to create a flattering, curve-skimming silhouette.
  • Sizing: US 2 - 20
  • Price: POA

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21. Kaylin - Madi Lane

Brunette model standing on grass wearing a pearl embellished off shoulder short dress

Minis are proving to be an incredibly popular choice for second bridal dresses this season, and Madi Lane’s Kaylin gown is one of our favourites. 

We adore its dramatic mini three-quarter circle skirt, adorned with glittering pearls and glitter tulle. This short but sweet dress is set to take the second wedding dress spotlight. 

  • Expert Take: Kaylin’s pearl embellished tulle off shoulder sleeves perfectly balance out the shorter length of the dress
  • Sizing: 2 - 28
  • Price: POA

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22. Chrissy - Rewritten London

Model with trees in background wearing silk slip wedding dress and tulle veil

Do you love the understated look? Rewritten London’s Chrissy gown could be ideal for your second wedding dress, especially for the simple satin lovers who desire an alternative, minimal look for the evening. 

Combining a V-neck bodice and bias cut into its bamboo satin sheath silhouette, this second bridal dress option truly is elegant. 

  • Expert Take: Chrissy also features a captivating criss cross back and small train which will look just phenomenal in your photos.
  • Sizing: UK 8 - 16 
  • Price: £595

£595 | Shop Now

23. Raphael - Ella Moda

Model wearing beaded fitted full length gown with sheer corset bodice

Dare to sparkle from every angle in Raphael, a sensational beaded beauty crafted by bridal couture designer Ella Moda.

Featuring an opulent corseted bodice with structured bones that lead the eye into its glistening skirt with ivory tulle godets, this dress is a no brainer for the nearlywed who wants to ramp up the glitz for their second wedding dress.

  • Expert Take: This glamorous look can be elevated even further by incorporating its matching fitted off shoulder sleeves.
  • Sizing: Contact stockists for details
  • Price: POA

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Can Your Wear White for Your Second Wedding?

Image of Meghan Markle and Prince Harry on their wedding day, looking at each other and at the bottom of a staircase
Getty / WPA Pool

Firstly, let's break down this whole brides-in-white business. It wasn't until Queen Victoria wore an ivory lace number in 1840 that white dresses became the fashion for British weddings. Before then, it was actually traditional for brides to wear red, and white was worn for mourning. Only later did the symbolism of purity, innocence and virginity become associated with white – it certainly hasn't been the case that brides always wore the colour.

The point is that no bride has to wear white, but anyone can wear white. If you want to follow this much-more-modern-than-you-think Western wedding tradition, go for it!

Sadly, you may encounter ignorant people who say wearing white again is "inappropriate" or a breach of etiquette. They are entirely wrong. You can wear whatever you want for your wedding, whether it's your first, second, third, fourth, fifth – you are in love and getting married and should celebrate the occasion with the joy it deserves.

See which celebrities chose non-white wedding dresses here.

What Colour Does a Bride Wear for Their Second Wedding?

White, as established, is fine, but any other colour will work, too. Be guided by colours that suit you and make you feel good. One thing to be aware of is that you may not be able to marry for the second time in a religious building, depending on your religion. This means your second wedding could take place at a registry office or venue licensed for civil ceremonies, and these are generally much more relaxed. You might have dressed modestly in traditional white in a church, for example, but be happy in a stunning pink gown in a registry office.

To put a twist on tradition, you could also choose to stick with white but wear something ultra-chic like a bridal jumpsuit or wedding trouser suit instead of a dress.

Should a Second Time Bride Wear a Veil?

Image of a to-be-wed wearing a lace wedding gown, a veil, and holding a simple bouquet

Absolutely, if that's what you want! There really is no etiquette that says you shouldn't. All you need to consider is whether a wedding veil will suit your personal style, be comfortable to wear and go well with your outfit and hairstyle.

Of course, if you're planning on wearing a non-traditional bridal outfit, a veil might look a bit much. In that case, it's worth investigating other bridal hair accessories, from silk ribbons to headpieces.

Second Marriage Wedding Dresses: The Dos and Don’ts

Image of a model wearing a white jumpsuit

Peta Hunt, a bridal fashion expert, has a simple tip for dressing for your second wedding: "If at first, you don't succeed – go dramatically different the second time!" 

You want to avoid anything that resembles your first dress for obvious reasons and also because it's likely your tastes have developed. "Hopefully, you'll be older and a little wiser and have found your personal style," she says.

What's more, wedding fashion doesn't stand still. The types of dress you can get will have changed from your first marriage, so there will be plenty of options available that weren't on the market the first time around. Check out our round-up of the hottest wedding dress trends to see what's new.

Other than choosing a different wedding dress style, there are some simple expert tips that will help you find the look you deserve.

Do Choose the Dress for You, Not Your Preconceptions

“Forget about your dress being age-relevant – you need to work out the right shape for you and look for a dress that suits your venue," says Peta. Think about what kind of day you're going to be having. "How about a chic suit and jacket in the style of Jackie O? It's perfect for a city wedding," says Peta. "For a countryside celebration, you could consider a boho dress if the aesthetic is laidback, or something more ballgown-inspired if it's super-formal. For an evening wedding, a beaded dress or jumpsuit can work well."

“Whatever style you choose, the key is to make sure to pick a fabric that flatters," says Peta. "Crepe is good, as well as classic lace or silk."

Don’t Be Afraid of Pattern

Image of a model wearing a floral-adorned dress

If you're thinking along alternative lines, you don't have to go for a block colour. Explore polka dot, floral, geometric – whatever feels right.

Do Pare It Back

"If your bridal style this time around is all about elegance, a good rule is to try to take it all down a bit,” explains Peta. This is relevant whether your second marriage is in your 30s or your 60s. “It comes down to focusing on quality. Go for a simple, perfectly cut dress and splash out on a pair of shoes or great jewellery. Don’t forget good underwear, too!"

Or Don't Pare It Back...

Image of a model wearing a glamorously eye-catching dress with a full skirt and gold-colored shoes

Remember, this is your wedding - if you want to go for high-octane glamour, we say do your thing and look amazing.

Do Find a Muse

“Think about a style icon and look at what type of outfits they pick," says Peta. "There’s lots of dress inspiration to be found on the red carpet to suit to-be-weds of all ages. Think Sophia Loren, Lauren Hutton, Charlotte Rampling, Helen Mirren, Pat Cleveland, Jane Fonda and Ines de la Fressange.”

Now you need the final finishing touch: an edit of comfortable wedding shoes that look as amazing as they feel.